He served more than 25 years in the Georgia House of Representatives and was the last WWII veteran to serve in the legislature.

Author:
Savannah Brock

Published:
7:09 PM EST December 15, 2017

Updated:
7:09 PM EST December 15, 2017

ATLANTA – On Friday, Governor Nathan Deal flew the flags at the state capital at half-staff in honor of John Yates, the nation’s oldest state legislator and World War II veteran.

Yates passed away on Dec. 11 at the age of 96.

He served more than 25 years in the Georgia House of Representatives and was the last WWII veteran to serve in the legislature.

During WWII, Yates honorably served the U.S. Army where he flew more than 200 missions near or over enemy lines including the Battle of the Bulge. He was awarded six air medals and four battle stars for his service.

In a statement, Deal said it is fitting and proper to remember and honor Yates’ serve to our state and country.

In honor of Rep. John Yates, I have ordered flags to fly at half-staff until sunset on 12/16, the day of his interment. Rep. Yates was the last World War II veteran to serve in the GA General Assembly. Sandra and I join his family and the Griffin community in mourning his loss. pic.twitter.com/66ketzEP61